Resolution to Require Data Disclosure on Arrests, Prosecutions, and Case Outcomes as part of Reimagining Public Safety Initiative Passes Unanimously
One of the nearly twenty initiatives agreed to in the 2021 Reimagining Public Safety resolution, a new requirement for the County to publish data on arrests, prosecutions, and case outcomes passed unanimously (12-0, Legislators Greg Mezey (D-Dryden) and Mike Sigler (R-Lansing) excused).
This directs the Community Justice Center to make data available on a dashboard encompassing information from the District Attorney’s Office, the Office of Assigned Counsel, and the Department of Probation and Community Justice. The information will highlight aspects of the criminal justice system ranging from once an arrest is made through case outcomes. The effort is paralleled by a recent dashboard published by the District Attorney’s office.
Legislator Anne Koreman (D-Ulysses) thanked Community Justice Center staff, saying “it’s just the beginning, we’re trying to be more transparent and give people more information. I hope it’s the start… of making information accessible for Legislators and the public.” Legislator Rich John (D-Ithaca), who chairs the Public Safety Committee of the Legislature stated that this effort reflected the County keeping its promises made on Reimagining Public Safety.
Among Other Business
A resolution in support of negotiating a memorandum of understanding between the County and local municipalities regarding the planned pilot rapid medical response system was tabled to be considered after additional conversations with municipalities.
Tompkins County Administrator Lisa Holmes announced that the “Red House” located at 408 North Tioga Street (Ithaca) has been listed for sale by the County, with offers being accepted through December 15.
Several Legislators remarked on having attended the Home Together, Tompkins summit held in November by the Continuum of Care and Human Services Coalition. Legislators shared insights regarding homelessness and stated their interest in more action to be taken by the County to help alleviate the issue.